5120-9-23. Escapes

(A) The department of rehabilitation and correction shall respond to an inmate escape in a manner which maximizes the safety of the general public while engaging in actions designed to apprehend the escapee(s).

(B) Each institution shall establish a specific prevention, escape and apprehension action plan which includes institution specific instructions for preventing an escape, and in the event of an escape: reporting, containment and security of the institution, mobilizing staff and information, formulating an action plan to apprehend the escapee(s), returning to normal operations and follow-up.

(C) In the event of an escape, the institution shall immediately report the escape to the Ohio state highway patrol and other relevant local support agencies and submit a written report to the director and or designee(s). Periodic updates shall be provided to the director and or designee(s) as instructed.

(D) An investigation of an attempted escape or actual escape shall be done to determine any security failures, staff failures, and to identify any corrective actions required or already taken.

(E) If an inmate who was convicted of a felony offense of violence escapes, the office of victim services shall notify each victim of the offense or offenses committed by the inmate of the inmate's escape and, if applicable, the inmate's subsequent apprehension. Notice shall be given as soon as practicable after the escape and after the office identifies and locates the victim or victims. The notice shall occur regardless of whether the victim is registered for notification with the office of victim services, unless the victim has specifically notified the office that the victim does not wish to receive notices regarding the inmate. The office of victim services may give the notice by telephone, in person, by e-mail, or by other electronic means. If the office of victim services cannot locate a victim, the office shall send the notice in writing to the victim's last known address. The office of victim services may request the assistance of the prosecuting attorney of the county in which the escaped inmate was convicted in identifying and locating a victim required to receive notice under this paragraph.

Five Year Review (FYR) Dates: 7/3/2019 and 01/24/2024
Promulgated Under: 111.15
Statutory Authority: 5120.01
Rule Amplifies: 5120.36, 5120.60
Prior Effective Dates: 01/20/1973, 05/15/2004, 12/01/2011

Prior History: (R.C. 119.032 review dates: 01/10/2014 and 01/10/2019
Promulgated Under: 111.15
Statutory Authority: 5120.01
Rule Amplifies: 5120.36, 5120.60
Prior Effective Dates: 1/20/73, 5/15/04)